Guide
No-exam life insurance
Accelerated underwriting eligibility, how the process works, and what happens if you don't qualify.
Many insurers now use accelerated underwriting: applicants within specified age and benefit limits can be approved using application data, prescription records, driving records and similar sources instead of a medical exam. You may have your decision within a single business day. The quotes here indicate for each option whether an exam is required, possibly required, or not part of the process.
What it changes
Accelerated underwriting does not bypass underwriting itself. Your answers are checked thoroughly, and a policy written on false information can be rescinded within the first two years. If questions come up in the carrier's review, they may still order an exam or tests; you can make a final decision then.
Who tends to qualify
Generally: younger than 60, requesting an amount within the carrier's instant-approval range, no significant health issues, and no tobacco use in the past year or more. Some carriers will work with recent blood work from your doctor as a substitute for a new exam.
When required, an exam in the Downey region typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes and happens at your home or workplace at no charge to you. A positive exam result can move you to a better rate tier, so underwriting review is not always a negative.